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SPRING 2025 RELEASE
Our latest release showcases Elwha, a variety of spelt grown in Washington State’s Horse Heaven Hills. This crop of Elwha was grown on the Moon Family Farm with no-till practices, minimal inputs, and irrigated exclusively with rainwater.
For those unfamiliar, spelt is an ancient relative of wheat with a long history that dates back over 5,000 years to the Fertile Crescent. It originated when durum wheat naturally crossed with wild goat grass. Those seeds sprouted and subsequently crossed with Emmer wheat, and the result became known as spelt. Over centuries, spelt was spread across Europe, known for its large, flavorful, and nutritious grains. Spelt developed a reputation for being more digestible than many modern wheats, and the gluten is said to be more agreeable to those with light sensitivities as well.
Spelt arrived in North America in the late 1800s and gained popularity in the 1960s with organic farmers. As an ancient grain, it is naturally hardy, requires minimal fertilizer, and grows well under organic farming conditions. This aligns well with our brewing preferences at Hanabi.
At Hanabi, we explore unique and flavorful grains through the lens of lager brewing. While spelt has been used historically in brewing—particularly in farmhouse saisons—it is not typical in lager. But we’re not bound by tradition. Our goal is simply to create the most delicious and expressive lager beers in the world.
Brewed as a Pilsner-style lager, Elwha Spelt brings cheerful aromas of lemongrass, cardamom, and mint. On the palate, a refreshing limestone minerality provides structure. The foam is bright white and fine-grained. Lager brewing brings precision and refinement to a grain sometimes known for its rustic character in farmhouse ales. The result is a beer that’s pure, complex, and perfectly suited to the vitality and optimism of springtime.